Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
LONG Chen Plaza hasn’t seen a weekend like this in a long time.
What was supposed to be just another Friday night outing turned into a full-scale mbira takeover as Mbira DzeNharira stormed The Yard and blew the roof off, officially lighting the fire for their 2026 campaign.
By nightfall, the venue was bursting at the seams, with revellers squeezing in, phones in the air and drinks forgotten as the mbira ruled the night.
Frontman Tendayi “Samaita” Gahamadze wasted no time reminding fans why his outfit remains untouchable.
From the opening notes, the crowd was hooked, dancing shoulder to shoulder as the group rolled out hit after hit.
When “Ndoenda Kwambuya” dropped, the place erupted.
By the time “Muchati Kudiiko,” “Magamba,” “Zvowoenda Harare,” “Karimudande” and “Toputika Neshumngu” followed, The Yard had officially turned into a traditional dance arena.
Clad in their unmistakable animal skins, Mbira DzeNharira looked every bit the cultural custodians.
Fans surged towards the stage, ululating, singing along and in true Zimbabwean style throwing wads of cash at the performers, a clear sign of how much the group had been missed. It wasn’t just music; it was a spiritual and cultural awakening.
“To be honest, I can’t thank my old and new friends enough after this epic show,” said Gahamadze after the dust settled.
“We are just starting the season, and it’s a marvel to kick off in such a way. I didn’t expect this large crowd considering it’s January. Having such a cheering crowd is a boon for those who love our culture.”
The veteran mbira maestro, with over 30 years in the game, used the electric night to remind fans that his mission goes beyond applause and cash showers.
“What I have witnessed in my life is magical because we were sent to teach people Ubuntu, love, and unity through music,” he said.
“I will not stop this special calling because our music has touched the hearts of millions and fostered respect for our traditions.”
Gahamadze also took a swipe at long-standing criticism of mbira music, which some still associate with dark spiritual myths. “I can tell you that nothing beats the mbira and our love for our tradition,” he said.
“Without fear or favour, I will continue to be a cultural ambassador with this God-given talent, fulfilling my special calling as a role model.”
As the night stretched into the early hours, the crowd showed no signs of fatigue. Drinks flowed, bodies moved and the mbira refused to rest. By closing time, it was clear the weekend had been owned by Mbira DzeNharira.
“There are some things in life you cannot run away from, especially when ancestral spirits have ordained you to be a teacher through mbira music,” Gahamadze said.
“It’s never too late for those who have lost their way to embrace their rich traditions.”
Mathew Masinge